Joan Marie Simon, aged 69, of Butte, Montana, passed away on February 16, 2024, surrounded by her beloved family members. "We are all stories in the end, remembered by the adventures we had, the achievements we made, and the people we loved. So make sure your story is a good one." – Nishan Panwar.

Born on December 27, 1954, in Butte, Montana, Joan Marie Jozovich was the daughter of George Louis Jozovich and Mary Lucille Jozovich. She attended Butte Central High School and graduated with the class of '73, maintaining close friendships and organizing numerous activities and gatherings with her classmates until her passing.

On June 4, 1977, Joan Marie Jozovich married David Edward Simon. Together, they raised three beautiful children, operated Rocky Mountain Dairy, and enjoyed a wonderful life. Recently, Joan and Dave began revitalizing the Columbia Gardens in Butte, a place significant to their history. Dave had asked Joan to the prom in 1973 at the Columbia Gardens, and despite an unconventional start, their journey together was filled with love and shared adventures.

Joan dedicated her life to serving her husband, children, and community. She worked for Fisher's Technologies, previously Davis Business Machines, for 24 years as a business manager. Joan loved interacting with local businesses, fostering connections in the community. Joan loved her coworkers at the civic center and enjoyed working community events there for the last 24 years.

Known for her kindness and selflessness, Joan always prioritized the needs of her family, business, and community over her own. In her 69 memorable years, Joan touched many lives and formed lasting friendships. She was an active member of the Class of '73 group, served as the board president for the Legacy Park Foundation (Columbia Gardens of the Rockies), and is on the board of directors for the Lady of the Rockies.

Joan found immense joy in spending quality time with her grandchildren. She loved football and was a die-hard Griz fan. Joan will be deeply missed but remembered with enduring love. May she rest in peace, surrounded by the serenity she brought to the lives of those she touched.

Joan is survived by her husband of 47 years, Dave; daughters, Rose (Kirk) Fuhringer, Tracy Simon (Harry Van Pelt); son Jason (Ashlee) Simon; and her grandchildren, Austin and Lacey Fuhringer. Brother James Jozovich and fiancée Tina Pederson of Butte; sister Marlena (Michael) McLaughlin of Las Vegas Nevada. Sister-in-law Carol Jozovich; Nieces and nephews, Teri, Joyce, Tyler and Linda Jozovich (widow of Kevin Jozovich), Amy Jozovich-Dye (widow of Gene Dye), Christie (Tim) Hazelwood, Kevin Jr., Clint and Chase Jozovich, Alex Jozovich, Kirk Ivankovich; and numerous cousins and cherished friends.  She is also survived by Lucille Riddle, who Joan considered her "3rd daughter.

Joan was preceded in death by her parents, George Louis Jozovich and Mary Lucille Jozovich; brothers Kevin, Mike, and George Jozovich; brothers-in-law Richard "Ricky" Simon and Walter Willard.

"It is never goodbye. Ya betcha I will see you later " – Joan

A  special thanks goes out to the staff at Anaconda Community Hospital and St. James Hospital for exceptional care.

Friends of Joan Marie Simon may call on Thursday, February 22, 2024, after 6:00 PM in the Duggan Dolan Mortuary Chapel.  Parish Vigil will be recited at 7:00 PM.  Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday, February 23, 2024 at 11:00 am in St. Ann's Catholic Church.  Rite of Committal will follow in Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery.  A further celebration of Joan's life will be held in the St. Ann's Parish Hall following graveside services.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the Legacy Park Foundation (Columbia Gardens of the Rockies) or an organization of your choice. Donations can be sent to P.O. Box 4287 Butte, Montana 59702.